Now that the festival is over, it’s time to leave the manic rush of the Fringe behind and return to normality (sigh). But for those of you who are mourning those wonderfully wet August days, huddled under cheap, dangerous umbrellas, don’t worry as there are plenty more films, shows and bars to uncover as we slip into Autumn. Probably unnoticed.
The Filmhouse is still showing its mini Polish Film Festival Play Poland. Running until the 15th September, it’s the very first of its kind, bringing recent Polish feature films into the spotlight. This is a chance to get a firsthand look into Polish film-making and with many of the films receiving awards and critical acclaim Play Poland appears to offer us an alternative cinematic experience. If films are your thing then last week saw the release of Pedro Almodóvar‘s haunting The Skin I Live In. Following a troubled plastic surgeon (Antonio Banderas) as he creates a skin that can withstand any damage, Almodóvar’s film aims to be a tightly controlled horror, executed with icy precision. Known for his abstract narratives and gothic style, the Spaniard’s newest release will no doubt join his other movie achievements in receiving worldwide recognition and acclaim.
As this festival was probably one of our wettest to date, many bars and restaurants will have reaped the benefits of those seeking shelter. For me, The Holyrood 9a became an almost second home. With an impressive real ale, beer and cocktail selection there’s something for everyone’s taste buds. Their menu boasts an impressive array of gourmet burgers, salads and desserts, taking special care not to forget about the vegis. Tucked away at the bottom of the Royal Mile, Holyrood is a little bit of quiet within the hustle and bustle of the city centre. With a relaxed atmosphere, homely feel and pleasant background music, this is a restaurant that caters to everyone’s needs.
Theatre-goers need not be disheartened. Both the Lyceum and the Traverse have recently released their Autumn/Winter calendars (Lyceum: here, Traverse: here). The Lyceum kicks things off with Liz Lochhead’s Mary Queen Of Scots Got Her Head Chopped Off, marking the beginning of a two year partnership between the Dundee Rep and the Lyceum. The Trav offer up New Works, showcasing texts from playwrights such as Anne Marie Di Mambro and Davey Anderson. Although the festival is over, Edinburgh is still furnished with a great deal of arts entertainment for everyone; the difference is it’s a little more chilled-out and you can maneuver around the city with ease. The only thing you need to hope for is some sunshine.